22 Sep 04 14:29
Volvo is to offer a V8-engined XC90 4x4 delivering 315 bhp and 440Nm though not in the UK. This 4.4-litre engine and accompanying new six-speed automatic transmission has been fitted to the popular XC90 specifically for the Americans though it will also be offered in other left-hand drive markets. As just 15,000 XC90 V8s are scheduled for sale next year, the numbers are too small to justify developing it in right-hand drive form. However, just so we know what we're missing: the V8 accelerates 0-60 mph in 7 seconds, can do 131 mph and return 21.7 mpg. "We chose to give our new V8 a sporty yet sophisticated appeal, with masses of power in reserve even as the revs rise", says spokesman Jorgen Svensson. Volvo claims that the new lightweight engine is "the cleanest petrol V8 on the market today", meeting the American ULEV II (Ultra-Low Emission Vehicle) regulations thanks to four catalytic converters, a high idling speed, optimized ignition for quick engine warming and a lean air/fuel mix on cold starting.
The V8 can be distinguished from lesser XC90s on the school run by its grille and tailgate badging, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, twin exhaust pipes, body-coloured side mouldings and door handles and graphite grey egg-crate grille. It is also the first XC90 to feature Instant Traction in its four-wheel drive system, which helps quick acceleration from start, reduces wheelspin and helps traction on slippery surfaces. This Haldex-developed aid pre-charges 80Nm of torque in the drive system, preventing the unit from becoming drained of hydraulic fluid. Around 75 percent of the XC90 V8s will go on North America, with the rest of the sales expected in Canada, Mexico, Germany and Japan. Sales start early next year. Volvo recently raised total annual production of the XC90 to 90,000 cars a year at its factory in Torslanda. The company also expects 2004 to be a record year for sales, with 450,000-460,000 Volvos of all ranges produced. At a time when fellow Ford Premier Automotive Group brand Jaguar is struggling, especially in the States, it reported today that it is experiencing continuous growth in sales in North America, and success in Germany, France, the UK and Italy, plus growth in China, other Asian countries and Eastern Europe. The XC90 is an important contributor to this success, though the recently-revised S60, V70 and XC70 ranges still account for 40 percent of the company's total volume.
*Come back to 4Car tomorrow and Friday for more news from the Paris Motor Show.
